<p>The COVID-19 pandemic has led to shifts in public perception over the past four years. Understanding the evolution of public cognition of COVID-19 is crucial for informing public health policymaking and preparedness for future public health emergencies. However, few studies have looked at how public views have shifted on a large scale. One way to explore these changes is by using concept mapping–a method often used in psychology to study how people organize and connect their ideas. In our research, we pay special attention to the metaphors people use, which act as essential vehicles for reflecting concept mappings and understanding complex ideas. We utilize a novel computational metaphor processing tool to conduct an extensive analysis of concept mappings derived from metaphors found in COVID-19-related tweets. By closely examining concept mapping patterns across different periods, we reveal noteworthy transformations in the public’s understanding of COVID-19. Our study contributes to filling the gap in the existing literature and provides valuable insights into how the public’s perception of the pandemic has evolved over time. These insights can help public health officials design more targeted and effective communication strategies for future crises.</p>